Archive | Complex - NEBC

With snow shovels in hand, the 13U Ruffnecks reported to the NEBC on Sunday, April 2 with determination to play baseball. The NEBC staff worked heroically during the April 1 snowstorm and through the night to clear the fields. Only the edges were left to clean. So the 13U Ruffnecks came to work. They cleared the remnants of the storm, and were rewarded with playing baseball under beautiful, sunny skies, with temperatures near 60.

Both the 13U and 14U Ruffnecks played single, nine-inning games against the Dugout Dawgs. It was the first real action after three consecutive bad weather weekends. The 13U ‘Necks played well, pitched well, and gained a ton of experience and knowledge from the outing. The more experienced 14U Ruffnecks found themselves in a more competitive environment, working out the kinks, and getting everyone an opportunity to get some innings under their belts. Both Ruffnecks teams look forward to getting into the rhythm of the season with additional action scheduled this weekend and beyond.

An unusually warm December gave many Ruffnecks players, and even some alumni, an opportunity to get to the New England Baseball Complex and take ground balls, batting practice, or fly balls on the fields. The NEBC is home to the Ruffnecks program, and it is a privilege that players appreciate. The “Ruffnecks Rule” is simple, and players know they should adhere to the rule by wearing Ruffnecks gear while working out. Throughout December it was a common sight to see Ruffnecks on Field #1 taking BP, and using the field as a “personal playground.” During the holidays several alumni also took advantage of the NEBC, including Arizona Diamondbacks second round draft pick, Isan Diaz. Isan ran into former Ruffnecks teammate Kendall Pomeroy (UMass-Lowell), and his brother, Curtiss Pomeroy (Georgetown University). All enjoyed some long toss, drills, and work in the warm sunshine of December.

Current Ruffnecks, including several of the new 13U players, are often seen roaming the premises. Of course, those who live closest enjoy the opportunity of access with more frequency than those who live further away. One thing is for certain as the cold winter approaches… everyone in the organization anxiously awaits the opening of the batting cages. I looks like it will be sometime in February before we can move the culture of baseball workouts at NEBC indoors, but if the weather remains clear, the fields will be used! In the meantime, team meetings are under way in “The Clubhouse” with the Seniors gathering on Sunday, December 27th to discuss season expectations, recruiting, and other business with Coaches Toffey, Jones, and Brickley in attendance. Matt Hyde of the New York Yankees, and Rich Gedman of the Boston Red Sox joined the discussion with perspectives from their experience and professional vantage points.

Ruffnecks are always welcome at the NEBC. We hope to see many dropping in during the new year.